Looking for a new property or selling one is always a risky adventure, therefore it’s a great idea to have a real estate agent by your side to smooth things out. Although 92% of people start their search online, 88% of them end up purchasing a home through a realtor.
According to the National Association of Realtors, there are around 2 million active real estate agents. However, there is a difference between a real estate agent, a broker, and a realtor. A real estate agent has earned a license to sell properties while a broker can hire agents to work for them or is currently engaged in studies. But, a realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors, which means that he or she is bound by the code of ethics to treat clients with respect and honesty.
For many people who might not recognize the difference, the search for a good real estate agent is like a dating game because 52% of first-time property buyers found a realtor through referrals made by a friend or family member. And, as we all know, this usually doesn’t work out as it is supposed to.
When it comes to Florida, you shouldn’t be taking any chances with unverifiable real estate sources if you wish to find the best deal. You can take a peek at the Southwest Florida listings, but here are some valuable tips to help you navigate your quest for the best Marco Island realtor.
Look for a Local Marco Island Realtor
Marco Island is the biggest island in Southwest Florida, with a lot of different property styles and unique communities. You wouldn’t want someone without the necessary experience to rush you into a making a deal that might not be in your best interests.
A local Marco Island realtor knows where to look and how to negotiate in order to minimize your costs. So, the first step is to conduct online research. Meaning, browse those listing pages to find useful information about the realtor’s track record, properties, and home prices, as well as the number of houses sold.
Take a Closer Look at the Listings
The realtor’s website can tell you more than you think. Take a closer look at their listings and see if the property you want to buy or sell is similar to what they have been working on in the past.
Also, contrary to popular opinion, real estate agents who have a lot on their plate might not be able to dedicate their maximum time and effort to you specifically, so that’s something else to take into consideration.
Neighborhood Expert
Marco Island has several communities, but they are mainly gated communities. Nevertheless, neighborhoods differ, as well as the amenities that they have to offer to new residents. A good agent knows all the properties in the area that are for sale, even those that might not be featured on listings.
This is precisely one of the reasons why you should be working with a professional and only use their listings as a way to assess their competence. In addition, you don’t want a realtor who covers the entire state and has to travel a lot. You actually need a realtor who covers your particular area of interest.
Be Prepared for Every Situation
Are you selling a property, buying land, investing, or are you interested in remodeling and flipping homes? Either way, you would want your realtor to be familiar with all of these situations as trusting them only on their word is not enough.
A quality agent always gets you covered. Hence, if you need an architect, a moving agency, cleaners, designers, and more, they will always have the best services up their sleeve to save the day. Working with the best means that you get to kick back and relax while they take care of the essentials.
Ask Questions
Asking questions should work both ways. While you are asking your Marco Island realtor about references, the vendors they worked with and the houses they sold, it’s also important to encourage them to ask questions. And, not the usual questions about the price and the property style you are trying to find, but questions with a deeper meaning such as what are your goals and priorities.
When a realtor takes time to get to know you, show that he or she respects your wishes, this shows that they will work hard to give you what you want. It also speaks a lot about their customer service and how much they have stayed true to their code of ethics.
If you have any questions about Southwest Florida or Marco Island properties, please feel free to contact us. We don’t take our clients likely and we work only with one mission in mind – to satisfy our clients and offer them the best deals with a wide range of prices. Selling a house? Renting for holidays? Or considering to purchase your own Southwest Florida home? We got you covered.